Bruno Clavelier, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Bruno Clavelier is a family-owned 6.5-hectare estate in Vosne-Romanée producing primarily Pinot Noir from mature vines (40-80 years old) across premier terroirs in the Côte de Nuits, including several Premier Cru sites and a small Grand Cru holding in Corton. The domaine practices certified biodynamic viticulture with horse-drawn plowing in select parcels, followed by traditional winemaking methods including native yeast fermentation in open-top wooden vats and minimal intervention throughout the 15-18 month aging process.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Bruno Clavelier was established in 1988 when Bruno Clavelier took over the family estate previously managed by his maternal grandfather, Joseph Brosson. Based in Vosne-Romanée in Burgundy's Côte de Nuits, the domaine represents a continuation of winegrowing traditions dating back to the early 20th century. Bruno Clavelier, who previously worked as an agricultural engineer, brought scientific knowledge and a deep respect for traditional methods to the family property. Under his direction, the domaine transitioned to biodynamic farming practices in the 1990s. The estate remains independently owned and operated by Bruno Clavelier, who oversees all aspects of production from viticulture to winemaking. The domaine's headquarters and cellars are located in the village of Vosne-Romanée, at the heart of some of Burgundy's most distinguished terroirs.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Bruno Clavelier manages approximately 6.5 hectares of vineyards spread across several appellations in the Côte de Nuits. The estate's holdings include parcels in Vosne-Romanée, Chambolle-Musigny, and Corton. In Vosne-Romanée, the domaine cultivates several Premier Cru sites including Les Beaux Monts, Les Brûlées, and La Combe Brûlée. The Chambolle-Musigny holdings include Premier Cru parcels in La Combe d'Orveaux and Les Noirots. The domaine also produces a small quantity of Grand Cru wine from Corton.
The vineyards feature limestone-clay soils typical of the Côte de Nuits, with variations in the limestone-to-clay ratio depending on the specific site. The vines average 40-60 years of age, with some parcels containing vines over 80 years old. Pinot Noir dominates the plantings, comprising approximately 95% of the total vineyard area, with the remainder dedicated to Chardonnay. Vine density follows traditional Burgundian practice at around 10,000 vines per hectare. The vineyards are situated at elevations between 250 and 300 meters, with varying exposures that contribute to the distinctive character of each wine.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine Bruno Clavelier operates under certified biodynamic principles, having received Ecocert organic certification and practicing biodynamic methods since the 1990s. The estate employs horse-drawn plowing in several vineyard parcels to minimize soil compaction and preserve microbial life. In the vineyards, Clavelier maintains low yields through careful pruning and green harvesting when necessary, typically averaging 30-35 hectoliters per hectare.
The winemaking approach emphasizes minimal intervention to express terroir authenticity. Harvesting is conducted entirely by hand, with rigorous sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery. Fermentation occurs with native yeasts in open-top wooden vats, with gentle extraction achieved through punch-downs and pump-overs determined by the characteristics of each vintage. The wines undergo aging in French oak barrels, with new oak usage varying from 20% for village-level wines to 50% for Grand Crus. Aging periods typically range from 15-18 months depending on the appellation and vintage conditions. Bottling is performed without fining and with minimal filtration only when necessary. This methodical approach to both viticulture and vinification reflects Clavelier's commitment to translating the distinctive characteristics of each vineyard site into wines that express their origin with clarity and precision.